A Sukhoi-30MKI fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force reportedly crashed near Chokihola in Karbi Anglong district of Assam during a routine training sortie.

• A Sukhoi-30MKI fighter jet of the Indian Air Force reportedly crashed near Karbi Anglong after taking off from Jorhat during a routine training sortie. 
• The aircraft lost radar contact around Santilangso near Barpung, and a search and rescue mission was launched immediately. Two pilots were reportedly on board the aircraft.
• The fighter jet was part of a four-aircraft formation conducting night-flying training exercises. Squadrons of this aircraft type operate from Tezpur and Chabua air bases in Northeast India.

About Sukhoi-30MKI Fighter Aircraft

The Sukhoi-30MKI is a multirole combat fighter aircraft jointly developed by Russia’s Sukhoi Design Bureau and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for the Indian Air Force.

Key Features

• It is a fourth-generation multirole fighter jet used for air superiority and strike missions.
• Powered by two AL-31FP turbofan engines with thrust vectoring capability, allowing high manoeuvrability.
• Equipped with canards, which improve aerodynamic control.
• Fitted with the Tarang Radar Warning Receiver, indigenously developed by the DRDO.
• Capable of carrying the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, successfully integrated with the aircraft in 2017.

Range and Performance

• Maximum unrefuelled range: about 3,000 kilometres.
• With in-flight refuelling, operational range can extend up to 8,000 kilometres.

Strategic Importance

• The Sukhoi-30MKI forms the backbone of India’s fighter fleet.
• It plays a critical role in air defence, maritime strike, and deep penetration missions.
• Bases in Northeast India strengthen India’s strategic air capability near the eastern border regions.

Statement-Based MCQ

Which of the following statements regarding the Sukhoi-30MKI aircraft is correct?

(a) It is a multirole fighter aircraft used by the Indian Air Force.

(b) It is capable of carrying the BrahMos cruise missile.

(c) It is manufactured in India by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.

(d) All of the above.

Answer: (d)

Exam Hook: 

Q. The BrahMos missile integrated with the Sukhoi-30MKI aircraft is a:

(a) Hypersonic ballistic missile
(b) Supersonic cruise missile
(c) Subsonic surface-to-air missile
(d) Anti-tank guided missile

One line wrap: The Sukhoi-30MKI remains the backbone of India’s air power, highlighting both the strategic importance and operational risks of advanced fighter aircraft.

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